Elderly Veterans

According to the 2012 U.S. Census brief, the Veteran population ages 65 or older numbered in excess of 12.4 million. These Veterans served in conflicts around the world including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and even in the Persian Gulf War. As Veterans age, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide benefits and services that address a variety of issues including the changing health risks they face and financial challenges through VA benefits.

VA Benefits

Elderly Veterans may be eligible for a wide-variety of benefits available to all U.S. military Veterans. VA benefits include disability compensation, pension, education and training, health care, home loans, insurance, vocational rehabilitation and employment, and burial. See our Veterans page for an overview of the benefits available to all Veterans.

VA Benefits for Elderly Veterans

Two VA programs provide certain elderly Veterans with an additional monetary amount if you are eligible for or receiving a VA Pension benefit.

Aid and Attendance (A&A) is an increased monthly pension amount paid if you meet one of the conditions below:

You require help performing daily functions, which may include bathing, eating or dressing
You are bedridden
You are a patient in a nursing home
Your eyesight is limited to a corrected 5/200 visual acuity or less in both eyes; or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less

Housebound is an increased monthly pension amount paid if you are substantially confined to your immediate premises because of a permanent disability.

» Learn more about these benefits on the Aid & Attendance Housebound benefits page.

VA Health Care for Elderly Veterans

Geriatrics is health care for elderly Veterans with complex needs. Extended care – also known as long term care – is programs for Veterans of all ages who need daily support and assistance. Elderly Veterans can receive geriatric and long term care programs at home, at VA medical centers, or in the community.

How to Apply

The specific VA benefit or program web page will provide tailored information about how to apply for a particular benefit or program. Generally, Servicemembers, Veterans, and families can apply for VA benefits using one of the methods below.

Apply online using eBenefits, OR
Work with an accredited representative or agent, OR
Go to a VA regional office and have a VA employee assist you. You can find your regional office on our Facility Locator page.
Go to a VA regional office and have a VA employee assist you. You can find your regional office on our Facility Locator page.